Survival vs. bushcraft: Which knife to choose for nature?

Choosing the right outdoor knife can make the difference between success in emergency situations and during regular camping. The terms survival and bushcraft are often used interchangeably when it comes to outdoor knives, but each type is suitable for a slightly different use. What are the differences between them and which knife will be ideal for your needs? You will learn that in this article.

The terms survival and bushcraft come from English and are often used interchangeably in practice. Although both are related to being outdoors and survival skills, their approach and focus differ. However, both are about being outdoors and the ability to survive even in more demanding conditions.

Working with a Hydra Knives^® Noctem knife in Helikon-Tex^® Woodcrafter leather winter gloves.

What is the difference between survival and bushcraft?

Before we get into the knives themselves, let's look at the basic differences between the terms "survival" and "bushcraft". While survival focuses on short-term survival in an emergency situation until rescue, the goal of bushcraft is long-term self-sufficient life outside civilization in harmony with nature and conscious preparation for this state.

Survival is therefore oriented towards effective survival and escape to safety; bushcraft advocates, on the other hand, build skills for a sustainable, independent life. The survivalist's equipment is modern, cutting-edge and well-thought-out survival tools; bushcraft, if possible, chooses traditional methods and natural resources. The survival approach is built more on quick (albeit pre-trained) improvisation. Bushcraft follows the path of slower but well-thought-out adaptation.

Willumsen^® Birddog fixed blade knife

Bushcraft knife – what is it and what is it good for?

Let’s first look at the bushcraft knife. As already indicated, it is a tool designed for long-term and planned stays in nature, where it facilitates woodworking and other camping. The purpose of a bushcraft knife is to work with wood, cut and process materials, and activities related to camping and bivouacing.

Bushcraft knife: key features

• Scandi or convex grind – for more information on knife sharpenings and their types, read our article on knife grinds.

• Minimalist design – not only looks good, but is also practical.

• Generally shorter blades than survival knives.

• Carbon steel blade – bushcraft and survival knives usually have this feature in common.

• More ergonomic design – an invaluable feature when working with wood; it is generally assumed that you will have a bushcraft knife in your hand more often than a survival knife.

Bushcraft knives in the Rigad offer

We have a wide selection in this category at Rigad.ccom as well. Let's look at a few examples:

Hultafors^® OK4 bushcraft knife – the Japanese carbon steel used for the blade of this knife has increased protection against corrosion. The blade has a Scandi grind. With the knife you can handle various bushcraft activities, including splitting wood chips for kindling, and the ergonomically shaped handle is a matter of course.

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Hultafors® OK4 bushcraft knife

€ 37,3In stock

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Morakniv^® Bushcraft Survival knife – this knife uses both “bushcraft” and “survival” in its name, but feel free to buy it for the first category of activities. The durable carbon steel blade and black non-slip handle are among the arguments for buying this particular knife, as is the flint that is included in the package.

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Bushcraft Survival Knife MORAKNIV

€ 76,2In stock

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Survival knife – why to have it and when will you get use of it

In contrast, the primary purposes of a survival knife are survival in extreme conditions, personal defense and emergency operations. In survival conditions, we never know what awaits us. Therefore, it is crucial to have a versatile knife that can handle a wide range of tasks.

Survival knife: main features and how to choose the right one

• Carbon steel blade – the same as a bushcraft knife; alternatively, high-quality stainless steel is used for greater durability.

• Scandi, combined or flat grind – the flat one is more versatile.

• Serrated or combined blade – some survival knives have a serrated blade for cutting various materials, such as ropes.

• Full tang construction – the most common design solution for even greater durability.

• Synthetic handle – the handle is usually made of synthetic materials such as G10, Micarta or Kraton; on the other hand, wood is used less often due to its higher maintenance requirements.

• Integrated survival accessories – survival knives are sometimes equipped with survival accessories hidden in the handle; this includes a sharpener, a flint or even a whole small first-aid kit.

Survival knives in the Rigad offer

Fox Outdoor^® Survival Jungle II fixed blade knife – this piece has everything you would expect from a survival knife. That is, a robust handle, a long combination blade including a serrated part and a basic survival kit including a compass, matches, fishing line, patch and paracord.

Gerber^® Ultimate Survival fixed blade knife – a quality knife with a combined blade from a renowned manufacturer, which offers a rubberized, ergonomic handle with a metal foot, which you can use as a hammer in an emergency. And also, for example, a built-in diamond sharpener to keep the knife sharp. Thanks to the whistle on the cord, you will be able to call for help if necessary.

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Knife Ultimate Survival Gerber®

€ 77,9In stock

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Bushcraft vs. survival knife: main differences and comparison

1) Purpose

• Bushcraft knife – a specialized tool for more delicate work in nature.

• Survival knife – a universal tool for survival in extreme conditions.

2) Blade construction

• Bushcraft knife – usually a thinner blade (2–4 mm) for easier work with wood.

• Survival knife – usually a thicker blade (4–6 mm) for rougher handling.

3) Blade shape

• Bushcraft knife – drop point, spear point; smooth edge for finer work.

• Survival knife – clip point, tanto, drop point; sometimes partially serrated edge.

4) Blade material

• Bushcraft knife – usually carbon steel (sharpens better).

• Survival knife – carbon or stainless steel (the latter is slightly more durable).

5) Handle construction

• Bushcraft knife – often natural materials (wood or bone), or Micarta.

• Survival knife – mostly synthetic materials, such as G10, Micarta, Kraton.

6) Size and weight

• Bushcraft knife – smaller and lighter for better handling in detailed work.

• Survival knife – larger and heavier for more versatile use.

7) Practical use

• Bushcraft knife – for long-term outdoor activities, wood carving, camping and making tools from wood.

• Survival knife – for harsh conditions, emergencies, military and tactical-survival use.

Morakniv^® ROPE is a high-quality Swedish-made working knife.

Which knife should you choose? Summary and recommendations

We have already said that the terms “bushcraft” and “survival” are often confused, and so the definitions of a bushcraft and survival knife often merge. We hope that after reading this article you have a little more clarity on the issue and choosing the right knife for your needs will be a little easier.

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